Classic Traditional White Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Traditional White Bread.

1. Step 1

   Begin by assembling all the necessary ingredients for your bread-making adventure.

2. Step 2

   In a spacious mixing bowl, combine warm water with yeast and sugar, allowing the mixture to rest for about five minutes until it becomes frothy and alive.

3. Step 3

   Next, incorporate two cups of bread flour, softened lard, and salt, stirring until everything is harmoniously blended.

4. Step 4

   Gradually introduce the remaining flour, adding half a cup at a time, and mix thoroughly after each addition until a cohesive dough starts to form.

5. Step 5

   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for approximately eight minutes, working it until it achieves a smooth and elastic texture.

6. Step 6

   Lightly coat a large bowl with oil, place the kneaded dough inside, and turn it to ensure it’s well-coated.

7. Step 7

   Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take around an hour.

8. Step 8

   While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare two 9x5-inch loaf pans by lightly greasing them.

9. Step 9

   Once the dough has risen beautifully, gently deflate it and transfer it to a floured surface.

10. Step 10

    Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf.

11. Step 11

    Place the loaves into the prepared pans, cover them with a damp cloth, and allow them to rise again until they double in size, which will take about 40 minutes.

12. Step 12

    After this second rise, place the loaves in the preheated oven, immediately reducing the temperature to 375°F (190°C).

13. Step 13

    Bake for around 30 minutes, or until the tops are a lovely golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

14. Step 14

    Once baked to perfection, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pans before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

15. Step 15

    Slicing into your homemade bread will reveal the delightful texture and aroma, making every bite a moment to savor.